A day in the life of a bus driver on the B-Line

Graham Christie spends his days cruising around Sydney’s picturesque Northern Beaches in what we think is a pretty pimped up ride – an eye-catching, bright yellow, double decker B-Line bus.

The turn-up-and-go service between the CBD and Mona Vale started up in late 2017 and is getting some great customer reviews. This Collaroy local stepped out from behind the wheel to share what it’s like working from the best mobile office in the world.

1. Firstly, what do you do?

I’ve been working as a bus driver with State Transit for six years and I’ve been driving the B-Line service since it began last year. My job is to provide a safe, smooth and reliable journey for customers.

2. What do you love most about driving the B-Line?

I love the views, especially around Collaroy, Long Reef and the Spit Bridge. Customers sitting on the upper deck get great views on the Sydney Harbour Bridge! I also like the laid back lifestyle of the Northern Beaches.

3. Can you tell us about a memorable moment on the job?

Each year, State Transit runs a bus decorating competition for charity. My colleagues and I always decorate our bus, and for three years in a row now we’ve won! They are definitely memorable moments in my career. It brings a lot of joy to a lot of people.

4. Could you tell us the type of skills do you need to be a bus driver?

Patience. Sydney has a lot of traffic congestion. You also have to be a people person – you have to have customer service skills and you have to love driving.

5. What’s something most people don’t know about you but might be surprised to find out?

I was a competitive gymnast as a teenager.

6. In your opinion what’s the most rewarding part of the job?

For many people, catching the bus is their lifeline. Not everyone has a driver’s licence. For some younger people, people with disabilities, or seniors who don’t drive anymore, the bus is their connection to the outside world. It’s rewarding that I can help them to connect, get to the shops and to see friends and family.

7. Sum up your job in three words

Positivity, patience, awareness.

Interested in become a bus driver?

State Transit is looking for motivated full-time, part-time and casual drivers in Sydney. Find out more about the application process and the great pay and perks right here

We’d love for you to be part of our team.

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